Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force Motherboard Review

1. Introduction2. Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force: Packaging and Bundle3. Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force: Board Layout and Features4. Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force: BIOS5. Gigabyte Z97 UEFI BIOS: Software6. Testing Methodology7. Tests: System-related8. Tests: Processor-related9. Tests: Gaming-related10. Tests: Motherboard-related11. Overclocking: Frequencies12. Overclocking: Performance13. Technical: Power Consumption14. Closing Thoughts15. View All Pages

The Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force is a strong overclocking-geared motherboard that provides users with a well-rounded set of general usage, gaming, and frequency-pushing features. And then there's the eye-catching black and orange colour scheme that will appeal to a variety of builders.

With its International Rectifiers-controlled power delivery system, overclocking performance of the Gigabyte Z97X-SOC Force motherboard is positive. We had no problem taking our 4790K CPU to 4.7GHz and holding it there with stability. And we did so by using a voltage level that would be safe for 24/7 usage.

General features of the Z97X-SOC Force are clearly optimised for overclocking users. Add-on controllers are scarce, with all SATA 6Gbps, SATA Express, and USB 3.0 ports operating natively from the Z97 chipset. Gigabyte does, however, equip the motherboard with a Killer E2200 NIC and Realtek ALC1150 audio codec to please buyers who will use the Z97X-SOC Force's strong multi-GPU support for gaming purposes.

Layout of Gigabyte's overclocking-enthused part is excellent. Four dual-slot graphics cards can be installed simultaneously, connectors are in good positions, and fan headers are located where overclockers and enthusiasts will require them. There's also the low-profile heatsink which help to minimise interference issues with large LN2 cooling pots.

Gigabyte's UEFI BIOS implementation is well-suited to overclocking users. In the past I have commented that the interface is difficult for novice users to grasp, but the sheer number of controllable parameters will appeal to overclockers and enthusiastic tweakers.

Currently available for £148.99 from OverclockersUK, Gigabyte's Z97X-SOC Force represents very strong value for money.

The overclocking-geared features such as the vast array of on-board power buttons, strong power delivery system, and support for four graphics cards are positive points for a motherboard in this price range. Add those features to the valuable NIC and audio codec, as well as the strong BIOS and attractive colour scheme and it can be seen that Gigabyte's Z97X-SOC Force is an excellent choice.

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Pros:

• Strong power delivery system and overclocking potential.
• Extensive range of overclocking-orientated features.
• Solid set of general usage features.
• Attractive and unique colour scheme.
• In-depth UEFI implementation well-suited for overclocking users.
• DualBIOS system for redundancy.

Cons:

• No M.2 connector.
• Potential for interference with large CPU cooler and upper PCIe slot.

KitGuru says: A well-equipped motherboard that provides plenty of overclocking features, as well as many more for general usage scenarios.

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